Salem’s walking tours deliver the city’s dark history and supernatural lore in well-organized, informative packages. Two outstanding options stand out: The Bewitched Walking Tour expertly chronicles the infamous Witch Trials with historically accurate details, while the Requiem Ghost Tour blends documented paranormal encounters with Salem’s maritime past. Both tours feature guides who know their stuff and keep things moving at a good pace.
Tours typically last between 90 minutes and 2.5 hours – just right for taking in the main sites without getting overwhelmed. For the best experience, book ahead during the busy fall season when crowds pack the streets.
Let’s explore the most worthwhile walking tours Salem has to offer.
Key Points
- Salem offers a variety of engaging walking tours, including historical, ghost, and specialty tours led by knowledgeable local guides.
- The tours provide an immersive experience, with storytelling techniques that enhance the exploration of Salem’s rich history and culture.
- Accessibility features and inclusive options ensure a comfortable and personalized experience for all participants, including wheelchair-friendly tours.
- Discounts and promotional offers are available, making the tours a great value for money.
- Key highlights of the tours include visiting historical landmarks, learning about the Witch Trials, and exploring local folklore and ghost stories.
Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem
The Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem offers visitors a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and its notorious Witch Trials.
This award-winning guided tour, led by licensed guides from the City of Salem, takes guests on a 2-hour exploration of more than a dozen significant stops in downtown Salem.
With 1,629 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, the tour is a top choice for travelers seeking an immersive experience.
Highlights include engaging storytelling, insights into local culture, and recommendations for other must-see sites.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Salem’s past, this tour provides an informative and family-friendly way to discover the city’s bewitching heritage.
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Salem: History of Salem Walking Tour W/Real Pirates Entry
Visitors seeking to uncover Salem’s rich maritime heritage can embark on the Salem: History of Salem Walking Tour W/Real Pirates Entry.
This 1.5-hour guided walking tour immerses guests in the city’s seafaring past, exploring 12 historic waterfront structures. Participants will learn about the Triangle Trade, privateers during the American Revolution, and global maritime commerce.
The tour also includes admission to the Real Pirates Salem exhibit, showcasing the only authenticated pirate treasure in the world.
With a small group size and an English-speaking guide, the experience offers a personalized and informative way to discover Salem’s maritime influence.
Pricing starts at $30 per person, with a reserve now and pay later option available.
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Requiem for Salem Walking Ghost Tour
Step into the spooky world of Salem’s haunted history with the Requiem for Salem Walking Ghost Tour. This highly-rated walking tour takes visitors on a journey through Salem’s eerie past, led by engaging guides who bring the city’s dark tales to life.
With an average rating of 4.6/5 from over 500 reviews, the tour is a popular choice among adults seeking an educational and entertaining experience. Participants often dress in Halloween costumes, enhancing the spooky atmosphere.
While the tour’s content and guide quality have received praise, some feedback mentions issues with volume and factual accuracy. The Requiem for Salem Walking Ghost Tour offers a unique blend of history and hauntings for those brave enough to explore Salem’s ghostly side.
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Vampire Ghost Adventures: Walking Tour With Haunted Objects
Salem’s Vampire Ghost Adventures: Walking Tour With Haunted Objects invites brave souls to explore the city’s haunted past.
This 1.5-hour walking tour starts at the Nathaniel Hawthorne Statue, covering 1.3 miles and numerous locations, including the Gardner-Pingree House and Old Burying Point Cemetery.
Led by an accomplished storyteller, the tour focuses on ghosts, poltergeists, vampire hysteria, and paranormal activity, with an emphasis on true experiences and myth debunking.
Highlights include entering a real haunted building and interacting with Haunted Objects.
Suitable for couples, friends, solo travelers, and families, the tour has earned a 4.4/5 rating, praised for its knowledgeable and entertaining guide.
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Satanic Salem Walking Tour
Setting out on a captivating journey through Salem’s intriguing past, the Satanic Salem Walking Tour invites participants to uncover the city’s profound connection to the occult.
Led by a licensed and certified guide renowned for their humor, charisma, and extensive knowledge, the tour provides an engaging and informative exploration of Salem’s history, with a focus on the local witchcraft narrative.
Offering discounted admission to the Satanic Temples Salem Art Gallery, the tour is accessible to all, with wheelchair and stroller accommodations, as well as service animal allowances.
Praised by over 1,400 travelers for its unique perspective and entertaining storytelling, the Satanic Salem Walking Tour stands out as a must-do experience for those seeking to explore the darker aspects of Salem’s legacy.
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Salem, MA: Hocus Pocus Movie Guided Walking Tour
Shifting gears from the occult-focused Satanic Salem Walking Tour, the Hocus Pocus Movie Guided Walking Tour invites visitors to explore the enchanting filming locations that brought the classic 1993 Disney film to life.
Spanning 2.5 hours, the tour guides guests through five key sites, including the high school, Dennison House, and the optional Pioneer Village.
Along the way, licensed guides share local insights, lead trivia games, and distribute swag bags and candy.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the 3.4-mile stroll offers a strenuous yet rewarding experience for Hocus Pocus fans, priced at $55.25 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Mysteries and Murders of Salem Guided Night-Time Walking Tour
Spooky tales of murder and mystery come alive on the Mysteries and Murders of Salem Guided Night-Time Walking Tour.
This 90-minute experience explores Salem’s eerie atmosphere at night, with professional guides sharing spine-chilling stories of the supernatural. Visitors can expect to hear about more than just the infamous witch trials, learning about Salem’s dark past of murder and the paranormal.
The tour starts at the Old Town Hall and ends at the Burying Point, a 5-minute walk away. With a maximum of 40 travelers, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
While the weather can be chilly, the overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the engaging storytelling and spooky ambiance.
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Salem: Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour
For those seeking a more immersive ghost tour experience, the Salem: Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour offers a captivating 1-hour exploration of the city’s haunted past.
Priced at $32 per person, the tour takes guests through the historic district, including the Hawthorne Hotel and Proctors Ledge, while a knowledgeable guide shares spine-tingling stories of ghostly encounters and local tragedies.
Participants can even rent EMF ghost detectors for an interactive experience.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour provides excellent value, with overwhelmingly positive reviews praising the guide’s performance.
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, and smoking, alcohol, and video recording are prohibited.
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The Salem Witch Walk
Renowned for its captivating history, Salem offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich tapestry of witchcraft with The Salem Witch Walk.
Led by a practicing witch, this 93% traveler-recommended tour provides an authentic glimpse into the world of witchcraft, from its historical roots to modern practices. Participants can expect to cast spells, witness a musical light show, and explore historic Salem sites like the Old Burying Point Cemetery.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, it caters to a wide range of travelers, with souvenir photos and discounts available.
Though some have reported cancelation issues, the Salem Witch Walk remains a highlight for many visitors seeking an immersive and educational experience.
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Salem: Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour
Nestled within Salem’s rich tapestry of history, the “Salem: Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour” offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s dark and mysterious past.
Priced at Kč 655 per person, this 2-hour guided walking tour takes participants to 9 historic locations, including the Salem Athenaeum and Old Burying Point Cemetery.
Guests will learn about the infamous 1692 witch trials, as well as tales of betrayal, murder, and mystery. The tour also features connections to Nathaniel Hawthorne and photo opportunities at filming locations of popular shows.
With knowledgeable guides, engaging storytelling, and a good value, this walking tour provides a unique and immersive experience for couples, groups, solo travelers, and families.
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History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour
The “History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour” offers visitors a captivating exploration of Salem’s rich history and spooky legends.
With over 11,500 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, this 2-hour tour covers 400 years of Salem’s past, from the infamous Witch Trials to the city’s bewitching landmarks.
Led by knowledgeable local historians, the tour takes guests through the cobblestone streets of the McIntire District, stopping at the Witch Trials Memorial, Witch House, and the iconic Bewitched statue.
Whether exploring during the day or opting for a spookier nighttime experience, this outdoor activity promises an engaging and educational journey through Salem’s centuries-old history and supernatural tales.
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Salem: Ghosts, Witches, & Warlocks Guided Walking Tour
Situated in the heart of Salem, the “Salem: Ghosts, Witches, & Warlocks Guided Walking Tour” invites visitors on a captivating exploration of the city’s haunted past.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the 1-1.5 hour tour takes participants to 4-8 haunted sites, including the Salem Old Town Hall and Old Burying Point Cemetery. Guests will discover chilling tales of the supernatural and learn about Salem’s preservation efforts.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5 from 386 reviews, the tour offers excellent value for money. Wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages, this walking tour is a must-do for those seeking to uncover the dark history and paranormal mysteries of Witch City.
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Salems Dark History & Witchcraft Hysteria Guided Walking Tour
On the heels of the “Salem: Ghosts, Witches, & Warlocks Guided Walking Tour,” the “Salems Dark History & Witchcraft Hysteria Guided Walking Tour” offers a deeper dive into the city’s tumultuous past.
This 1.5-hour tour, led by experienced storytellers, explores notable sites like the Witch House while delving into the chilling details of Salem’s witchcraft hysteria.
With a maximum of 35 participants, the tour provides an engaging narrative and insights into the city’s maritime history alongside the infamous witch trials.
While some reviews mention pacing and visibility issues, the tour generally receives positive feedback for its knowledgeable guides and recommendations for local dining and attractions.
This tour focuses on historical events rather than ghost stories, offering a comprehensive understanding of Salem’s dark legacy.
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Salem: Origins of Witchcraft and Magic Walking Tour
Delving deep into the origins of witchcraft and magic, the “Salem: Origins of Witchcraft and Magic Walking Tour” invites visitors to uncover the grim history that has shaped the city’s enduring legacy.
Priced from $32 per person, the 2-hour walking tour explores the connections between midwives and witchcraft, as well as the evolution of Salem into “The Witch City”.
Highlights include visiting the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, learning about classic witch tools, and engaging in a witch trial test during the tour.
With a 3.9/5 overall rating from 40 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable and entertaining guides, making it a must-experience for those fascinated by Salem’s dark history.
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Salems Spooky Spectres Walking Ghost Tour
The “Salems Spooky Spectres Walking Ghost Tour” invites visitors to explore the city’s haunted history, building upon the grim legacy uncovered in the “Salem: Origins of Witchcraft and Magic Walking Tour.”
Priced from $33 per person, this 2-hour walking excursion delves into Salem’s paranormal past, regaling participants with chilling tales of ghostly encounters and supernatural occurrences.
Led by certified guides renowned for their knowledge and storytelling abilities, the tour caters to most travelers, including families.
With a maximum of 120 participants, the experience earns high praise for its informative and entertaining approach, making it a popular choice for those seeking to uncover Salem’s spookier side.
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Salem, MA: History and Hauntings Guided Walking Tour
Visitors to Salem, Massachusetts can embark on a captivating 2-hour walking tour that delves into the city’s rich history and infamous haunted past.
Priced at $32.94 per person, this guided tour explores significant sites like the Old Town Hall, Witch House, and Salem Witch Trials Memorial.
Led by licensed historians, teachers, and artists, the tour provides a rundown of the Salem Witch Trials of 1692-1693.
With stops along Essex Street, the Bewitched Sculpture, and the McIntire Historic District, the tour is an engaging outdoor activity.
Praised for its knowledgeable guides and balanced presentation of history and ghost stories, this tour is recommended for all types of travelers.
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Salem On Foot Walking Tours
For those seeking to explore Salem, Massachusetts on foot, Salem On Foot Walking Tours offers an engaging and educational experience.
Led by the knowledgeable guide Rory, this 68-reviewed tour provides a deeper understanding of Salem’s history beyond the well-known witch trials. At $15 per person, the tour covers key landmarks and offers interesting facts that dispel common myths.
With a moderate fitness level required and a maximum group size of 25, the tour is accessible to most travelers. Consistently praised for Rory’s personable and informative approach, the Salem On Foot Walking Tour is highly recommended for first-time visitors and those interested in authentic Salem history.
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Private Walking Tour: Spooky Legends of Salem
Salem’s “Private Walking Tour: Spooky Legends of Salem” invites participants to uncover the city’s haunting past.
The 2-hour tour accommodates up to 6 people, starting at the Old Town Hall. Guests explore historic sites like the Witch Trials Memorial, Old Burying Point Cemetery, and the Witch House, while discovering the mysteries and legends surrounding the witch trials.
Along the way, they’ll stroll through the enchanting Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and admire the Bewitched Sculpture.
The tour also includes guided visits to the Ropes Mansion and Hamilton Hall.
Priced at $745.35 per group, the tour offers flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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1692 Salem Night Walking Tour
What better way to experience the haunting history of Salem than with the 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour? This 2-hour walking tour explores over 400 years of local history with a passionate local historian, Jeff Page.
Visiting more than a dozen historical sites, including the Witch Trial Memorial, travelers can expect engaging storytelling and personal anecdotes.
With a maximum capacity of 40 people, the tour offers an intimate experience. While there are no on-site restrooms, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Though non-refundable, the tour’s 99% recommendation rate from 211 reviews suggests it’s worth the $32 per person price tag for those eager to explore Salem’s spooky past.
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Salem: 1692 Witchcraft Trials Walk
Frequently, the Salem: 1692 Witchcraft Trials Walk guides visitors through the city’s dark past, uncovering the events and emotions that fueled the infamous Salem witch trials.
The 1.5-hour tour explores significant locations, including jails, courthouses, and the homes of judges and the accused. Along the way, guests learn about the personal stories of those wrongly condemned for witchcraft.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and features live narration in English. While photography and audio/video recording are prohibited, the overall experience earns high marks, with guests praising the knowledgeable guide and value for money.
Discounts are available for students, seniors, military, and local residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tour?
You’ll need to check with each specific walking tour company’s policies, as they may have restrictions on whether pets are allowed. Many tours may not permit pets for liability reasons or to ensure the comfort of all participants.
Is the Walking Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The walking tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors with mobility challenges to fully participate. Most tour operators provide accommodations for those requiring assistance, ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all guests.
Are There Restroom Breaks During the Walking Tour?
The walking tours typically include scheduled restroom breaks to accommodate participants’ needs. Tour operators strive to make the experience comfortable and accessible for all attendees, including providing necessary facilities during the tour.
Can I Take Photographs During the Walking Tour?
Yes, most walking tours allow participants to take photographs during the tour. However, visitors should be mindful of not obstructing the group or distracting the guide. Some tours may have restrictions in certain areas, so it’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time.
Is the Walking Tour Appropriate for Young Children?
The walking tour may not be appropriate for young children. While some tours offer family-friendly options, others focus on Salem’s darker history which could be unsuitable for younger audiences. It’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand.
The Sum Up
Salem offers a variety of walking tours that explore the city’s history, from its notorious witch trials to its haunted past. Whether you’re interested in the supernatural or just want to explore the historic streets, there’s a tour to suit your interests. With knowledgeable guides and immersive experiences, these walking tours provide a unique way to experience the enduring legacy of Salem.